House Bill No. 5126 seeks to amend existing consumer protection laws, particularly those governing written residential condition reports in real estate transactions. The bill repeals subsection (d) of section 20-327b and introduces new requirements for these reports, which will now include templates created by the Commissioner of Consumer Protection that adhere to specific formatting guidelines. Key insertions in the bill mandate that reports contain spaces for the buyer and seller's initials on each page and require sellers to answer a comprehensive list of questions regarding the property's condition, including any known issues, potential hazards, and legal obligations. Notably, sellers must also disclose any knowledge of repairs related to the property's foundation and provide information about flood risks, including whether the property is in a FEMA-designated floodplain.

In addition to these changes, the bill modifies the certification process for both sellers and buyers, ensuring that sellers acknowledge the accuracy of the information provided and encouraging buyers to conduct thorough inspections. The bill also includes technical revisions to update legal language related to gender-affirming health care services and the issuance of business certificates by the Commissioner of Consumer Protection. The effective dates for the various provisions in the bill differ, with changes to the home condition disclosure form taking effect upon passage, while revisions related to the Connecticut Data Privacy Act and updates concerning homemaker-companion agencies will take effect in 2026. The bill has garnered unanimous support from the General Law Committee, reflecting a strong consensus on the need for these updates.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 20-673
GL Joint Favorable: 20-673
File No. 159: 20-673